What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
misidentification
Example
The witness made a misidentification of the suspect in the lineup. [misidentification: noun]
Example
I had a misidentification of the bird species, thinking it was a sparrow when it was actually a finch. [misidentification: noun]
misrecognition
Example
Her misrecognition of her old friend was embarrassing. [misrecognition: noun]
Example
The misrecognition of the new employee by the manager caused confusion. [misrecognition: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misidentification is more commonly used than misrecognition in everyday language. Misidentification is often used in legal or forensic contexts, while misrecognition is more commonly used in social or interpersonal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between misidentification and misrecognition?
Both misidentification and misrecognition are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic settings.